Speaking

When we memorise dialogues (e.g. from textbooks), we become better at reacting spontaneously. We can reuse parts of conversations – such as questions and possible answers – and simply swap out individual words to make the dialogue fit our own situation.

In doing so, we also absorb grammatical structures without even realising it, and we can draw on them later when speaking. The vocabulary we learn this way is used correctly in context – we naturally choose the right preposition, add a suitable adjective, and use the correct register. And all this happens without having to consciously think about it.

But speaking involves more than just memorising dialogues – and of course, there are many other strategies that can help...

If you want to improve your speaking skills, it’s important to focus not only on vocabulary and grammar but also on other aspects like pronunciation, intonation, and the use of pauses and stress. That’s why resources that combine text and audio are particularly useful.

1. Some textbooks come with supplementary videos with subtitles. This allows you to follow along with authentic pronunciation and natural speed, practise speaking with the dialogues, and eventually hold similar conversations yourself.

   Example (French) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xGmrIQilHU

   Example (Spanish – Hola, ¿qué tal?): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bj-fAlHK2rM[&]list=PLdzqcdsXmqB_V8_dBpYlYAB5qmsCHXVkJ

2. Beyond textbooks, there are many videos and websites online designed for learners, where you can listen to a dialogue or text while reading along.

   Example (Spanish – Presentaciones): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fR4FpsN0FE

   Example (English – Breaking News English Lessons): Breaking News English Lessons: Easy English World News Materials - ESL  (Learners can even choose between different reading speeds.)

3. Many authentic sources provide transcripts, so you can apply the same strategies with them – for example, with dialogues from films or radio shows, presentations, and so on. Note: These strategies may be more suitable for intermediate or advanced learners.

   Example (Spanish – Países y nacionalidades): https://videoele.com/A1-Paises-y-nacionalidades.html

   Example (English Radio – NPR Podcasts & Shows): NPR Podcasts [&] Shows : NPR

4. There are also videos specifically created for language learning.

   For example, some videos improve listening through subtitles, which you can also use as transcripts to practise speaking aloud: Learn/Practice English with MOVIES (Lesson #1) Title: The Incredibles (youtube.com)

You learn to speak by speaking. But where can you find someone to practise with?

By the way, it doesn’t have to be a native speaker. You can also speak with other learners, because what really matters is using the language – finding the right words in a conversation and applying structures and expressions.

• You can attend a language course and take every opportunity to speak during partner work.
• You can find a language tandem partner to help each other. For example, in French there’s an eTandem programme with the Université de Lorraine.
• Students attending courses at the language centre can also use our tutorials in English, French, Italian, and Spanish. (The English tutoring is only available as a supplementary offer for students enrolled in regular courses. For other languages such as Spanish, the tutorial are open to all members of UdS, including staff and guest students.)
• UdS staff can book coaching sessions (English only), attend language breaks (English or French), or take advantage of other intermittent offers (see offers for staff).
• You can also find partners independently – the internet offers a wide range of possibilities…